Silo Creates Wayfinding System for Fontys University's R3 Building in Eindhoven
Silo crafted the spatial identity and wayfinding for the R3 Economic Studies building at Fontys University in Eindhoven, which underwent reconstruction by Mecanoo architects. The design adopts a vertical campus approach, moving from lively social spaces on the ground floor to serene study zones above. The ground level showcases a patterned social carpet with sharp zigzag designs, a social staircase featuring broad oak steps and vibrant green pads, along with painted quotes from personalities such as Gordon Gekko and JAY-Z on the wooden risers. Bold room graphics—charts, stock figures, and directional arrows—are displayed on glass walls, echoing the curriculum while allowing daylight to filter through. Navigation on the floors employs a clear type scale with striped bands, combining large numbers with active Dutch terms: BG Ontmoeten (ground floor meeting), Level 1 Onderzoeken (research), Level 2 Teamwerken (teamwork), and Level 3 Studeren (quiet study). Each level is marked by solid black blocks on tall totems. At the heart of the atrium, a coffee bar features a 3D waffle counter with angled lettering that reads 'food' from one angle and 'drinks' from another. Modular six-sided seating in grey, green, and blue is arranged near white pillars. This project exemplifies how campus wayfinding can enhance connections rather than simply indicating entrances. The complete project can be viewed on Behance.
Key facts
- Silo developed the spatial design and wayfinding system for Fontys University in Eindhoven.
- The R3 Economic Studies building was rebuilt by Mecanoo architects.
- The design follows a vertical campus model with social zones on the ground floor and quiet study on top floors.
- The ground floor features a patterned social carpet with sharp zigzag lines and a social staircase with wide oak steps and bright green pads.
- Painted quotes from Gordon Gekko and JAY-Z line the wood risers of the staircase.
- Glass walls display bold room graphics including charts, stock numbers, and direction arrows.
- Floor navigation uses a type scale with stripe bands and Dutch words: BG Ontmoeten, Level 1 Onderzoeken, Level 2 Teamwerken, Level 3 Studeren.
- A coffee bar with a 3D waffle counter and angled letters reading 'food' and 'drinks' anchors the atrium.
Entities
Artists
- Gordon Gekko
- JAY-Z
Institutions
- Silo
- Fontys University
- Mecanoo
- Behance
Locations
- Eindhoven
- Netherlands